Alta Via 1

You want to do a hut-to-hut trek in the Alps, but you’re not sure: will it be the Tour du Mont Blanc or the Alta Via 1? A luxury dilemma, because both are among the most beautiful multi-day hiking routes in Europe. Still, they differ quite a bit — in landscape, difficulty, comfort, and atmosphere. In this comparison, you’ll read exactly what to expect from each route, so you’ll know which Alpine hut-to-hut trek suits you best.

Above the Falzarego Pass in the Dolomites stands Monte Lagazuoi (2,835 m). Today it's known for its wide views and hiking trails, but during the First World War it was part of a cold and lonely front line. Deep inside the mountain, soldiers from Italy and Austria-Hungary dug a maze of tunnels and fought a battle where the rock itself became an enemy. Today, this area is also crossed by the famous Alta Via 1, making it a highlight for hikers looking to mix history with adventure.

Lago di Braies, Pragser Wildsee, Lake Braies, and Lake Prags are four names for the same thing: The Pearl of the Alps, the most beautiful lake of the Dolomites. It is not just the starting point of our favourite Alta Via 1, it is also one of the most popular stop-and-go tourist destinations in Italy. It is super busy but one can get away from the crowds and make a visit to Lago di Braies a lot more special. Include a stay in Rifugio Biela at the foot of Croda del Becco (Seekofel), the majestic mountain featured in any Instagram post and Tiktok reel about Lago di Braies. Andiamo!! Lago di Braies gets 1000s of visitors daily. In Summer 2023, vehicle access was restricted because of overtourism. Do you know those Instagram vs Reality posts? A beautiful spot, slightly overrun by the crowds. But your visit doesn’t need to be like that. Join us on a hike, on a tiny Lago di Braies trekking, get a spectacular appetizer of the Alta Via 1, and leave Pragser Wildsee recharged.